(Post sponsored by Tinsley Title, Holt Wrecker, R&R lawn specialists, Gibson Pharmacy.)
Now that's how you wrap up the preseason.
The Athens Hornets traveled to Lindale Thursday night for their final scrimmage before the season kicks off for real next week against Henderson. The Hornets were dominant at times against the perennially powerful Eagles, particularly on the offensive side of the ball.
After a few possessions of a normal controlled scrimmage, the two teams faced off for a live half with the Hornets finishing on top, 21-13.
Even though the Hornets rotated through their roster, protecting their starters and getting valuable reps for everyone, the Athens offense dominated. Quarterbacks David Richardson and Thatcher Diamond were both solid in guiding the team.
Coach Harrell said he was happy with how the QBs operated the run-pass option plays (RPOs), which is a more complex system with multiple play calls built into each snap.
“To be honest, we had never done that,” Coach Harrell said. “But we feel like we have experienced guys that can handle that, both quarterbacks actually. And I thought they did an excellent job tonight of making the right decision and then getting the ball where it needs to go.”
He also praised the offensive line for handling a Lindale front anchored by two Division I linemen.
Other bright spots for the offense were E'manual Moore, who made a pair of highlight catches including a touchdown, and Julious Brewer who caught touchdowns in both the controlled portion and the live half, showing his speed.
On defense, the Hornets’ starters forced a three-and-out and then came up with a fourth-down stop on the Eagles’ opening series during the live half.
“Eli Carnes looked really good, like we know he is,” Coach Harrell said. “He’s going to be better than he was last year, and he showed some glimpses of that tonight.”
Overall, Coach Harrell said he was pleased with the progress from the first scrimmage to this one.
“I thought our energy was so much better,” he said. “We challenged our guys to encourage their teammates on the sideline, and I thought they did that. Then I thought we made a lot of big plays.”
The Hornets now segue into their regular season schedule and start preparations for their home opener against Henderson next Friday night, Aug. 29, 7:30 p.m. at Bruce Field.
